What does vitex agnus-castus do?
Vitex agnus-castus, or chasteberry, may boost fertility and reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause. It may also repel certain insects. Most other uses are currently unsupported by science. It may cause stomach discomfort and other mild side effects, but it’s considered safe for most people.
How long does it take a Vitex tree to grow?
The growth rate is about 15-20ft. tall and wide sometimes taller after 30 years. A low water tree once established. Beautiful spiky dark lilac blooms in late spring and early summer.
Are Vitex trees poisonous?
Vitex dangers and toxicity Its effect is due to the action of the iridoid glycosides for binding to dopamine receptors, which stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone. Because of its effects on dopamine levels, people in treatment for depression should consult their doctor before taking this plant.
What is Vitex Chaste tree good for?
Chaste tree has been used to treat menstrual cycle problems and pain, premenstrual syndrome, and menopause. Chaste tree berries may help stimulate progesterone. This is a female hormone that rises 2 weeks before menstruation. It may help normalize estrogen and progesterone.
Are vitex trees fast growers?
Like most shrubs, vitex is best planted in the spring to give it plenty of time to establish roots before winter dormancy. It is a fast-growing shrub that can shoot up as much as 7 feet in a single season, but most gardeners opt to keep this potentially invasive plant to 10 feet or less in height.
Is vitex tree messy?
Plant of the Week- Chaste or Pepper Tree – Vitex Angnus – Caretaker Landscape. Long, narrow spikes of purple flowers cover this plant in the summer months. Unfortunately, this tree is fairly messy, shedding all of its leaves in the fall, and dropping old flowers and seeds throughout the year.
Is vitex a tree or bush?
Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus) is a deciduous shrub that bears clusters of purple flowers in the summer. The leaves of the vitex are reminiscent of the marijuana plant (Cannabis sativa), with five leaflets in a palm-shaped arrangement.
Is Vitex tree messy?
What kind of tree does Vitex agnus castus feed on?
Thysanoptera, also known as thrips, can cause great damage to the growth and the generative development of Vitex agnus-castus. The insect feeds on chaste tree by sucking up the contents or puncturing them. Also Chaste tree is the only known host (especially in Israel) for Hyalesthus obsoletus.
Why is the vitex tree called the chaste tree?
It has been long believed to be an anaphrodisiac – leading to its name as chaste tree – but its effectiveness for such action remains unproven. Vitex is a cross-pollinating plant, but its self-pollination has been recorded.
Are there any side effects of Vitex during pregnancy?
Although vitex is commonly recommended in Germany, there are further indications that Vitex agnus-castus should be avoided during pregnancy due to the possibility of complications. The most frequent adverse effects from vitex use include nausea, headache, gastrointestinal discomfort, menstrual discomfort, fatigue, and skin disorders.
Is the Hyalesthus obsoletus an invasive plant?
This plant has the potential to become invasive, especially in southern areas of the country. Its dry fruit can be a litter issue. PESTS AND DISEASES: Thrips can cause damage. It is the only known host for hyalesthus obsoletus and can be used as a biological control agent by planting it around vineyards to trap this cicada.